New Belfast Rapid Transit Glider Service Becomes Fully Operational

The new Belfast Rapid Transit Glider service has become fully operational, rolling out across the city this morning, Monday 03 September.

The Department for Infrastructure has said that it hopes the £90 million investment in the new innovative mode of travel will encourage people to use public transport.

Speaking at a launch event at Belfast City Hall, David Sterling, Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service said: "The Belfast Rapid Transit Glider service is all about customers and connectivity. It offers an enhanced customer experience and a joined up service.

"The current patterns of transport and our dependency on the private car are simply not sustainable. Working together we can reduce emissions and congestion levels. That's why we have a very clear commitment in our Outcomes Delivery Plan to increase the percentage of journeys we make by public transport, walking and cycling.

"The new Glider service will offer quick, modern and efficient access into and across the city. It will also improve the city's image and help to open up new development opportunities along its routes, linking and regenerating communities and transforming neighbourhoods."

Glider offers a modern, high-capacity and high-frequency rapid transit service which integrates into the existing Translink bus and rail network. It also marks the first stage in delivering Translink's new Future Ticketing System with off-board ticketing – another first for Northern Ireland.

Chris Conway, Translink Group Chief Executive, said: "We're transforming local public transport, providing modern, efficient services, vital for our economy to prosper, for social inclusion and the environment. With a record 81 million passenger journeys delivered last year, the highest in 20 years, Glider is a further significant step towards making public transport your first choice for travel in Northern Ireland.

"Glider is the new face of public transport in Belfast. The Eco Hybrid vehicles will help improve air quality in the city and can each carry up to 105 passengers, offering convenient features like free Wi-Fi and USB charging facilities. The new off-board ticketing system will facilitate faster journeys and offer the same excellent value tickets as Metro.

"Today marks the culmination of years of research, planning and development and I'd like to thank the Department for Infrastructure for the leadership necessary to deliver this major project, also Belfast City Council and the many stakeholders who have worked with us to deliver Glider for the City of Belfast. 

"I'd like to pay tribute to everyone for your interest, enthusiasm, patience and support. We now look forward to welcoming all our customers on board their new Glider service from Monday," said Chris. 

The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Deirdre Hargey, added: "The introduction of the Glider is good news for Belfast and for Belfast City Council – it will help us as we work to achieve the aims of our Belfast Agenda the long-term development plan for the city.

"By 2035, our council aims to increase the number of residents in Belfast by 70,000, and create 50,000 more jobs. Fast, efficient public transport is vital to the success of the Belfast Agenda ensuring people can move freely and easily across the city. It is also essential in helping to attract companies to invest in Belfast so we are delighted to see that the service is ready to go live."

Glider customers are encouraged to pick up a 'Guide to Glide' and service timetable online, in-station or from the Glider teams helping customers at halts during the first week of service.

(MH/CM)